Paul are a part of Minnesotas future. Much ol the legislation we have been discussing over the past months since welfare reform was enacted. are quick fixes at best Members of Congress and the administration need to come together to find workable soluions that will not be portrayed as a permanent fix while leaving individuals vulnerable. I am concerned that according to news reports. the budget agreement tdes to "fix" the problem for legal immigrants by extending the eligibility period for refugees from 5 to 7 years. The addi. tional 2 years Is hardy an adequate approach. What Congress and the administration should do Is set in place a permanent eligibility standard. Anything short of that approach will allow Innocent Individuals whether they be Hmong veterans. RussianJews. or other refugees. to fail through the cracks. They may well become noncilizens. indigent after 7 years as a refuge. but without Social Security or meeting the 15 year threshold for SSI considerations. Mr. Chairman. I urge support for the pending amendment. I also urge our leadership to develop a comprehensive solution to the problem of all legal immigrants that have been mistreated under the current new welfare law. Mrs. ME EK of Florida.
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refugees immigrants